Dear editor:
I am writing to echo previous letters imploring people not to hoard goods during the COVID-19 pandemic.
There are many people who are dealing with chronic illness or pain that live off a very small disability allowance every month. I am one of them.
I was stunned when I went to Walmart a few weeks ago and discovered there was absolutely no toilet paper of any kind.
In fact, the only thing I was able to buy was a store brand package of one-ply party napkins for $6.47!
I had had to cut each napkin in half to use as toilet paper (not supposed to flush napkins, paper towels, etc). I truly needed to purchase this, I had a quarter of a roll and I have four children.
Also, there was almost no meat of any kind available for purchase: no chicken, no turkey, no steak or beef of any kind other than a mixture of pork and beef ground together.
This means I had to stop my medically directed diet and I am sure I am not alone.
For an area with so many people already struggling, I am very concerned about people living below the poverty line already being able to buy staple items.
I am saddened that during a state of emergency anyone would hoard items needed for living. Now is the time to think about our neighbours and not just ourselves or we will not get through this situation without significant hardship.
The class distinction of this region is already creating housing shortages and we are still dealing with the ongoing opiates pandemic.
I am begging everyone to consider the needs of those far less fortunate. If we don't support one another now, the consequences will be felt for a long time to come.
I know everyone is afraid, but that means poor people as well. We must do better.
Catherine Lee Randall
NOTL